After Suspension, Grizzlies Should Trade Ja Morant

Ja Morant — once the Grizzlies’ game-changing star — drew a one-game suspension for “conduct detrimental” after a locker-room incident with coach Tuomas Iisola, per Shams Charania. His on-court drop is stark (about seven fewer points than 2021-22, just 15.6% from three this season) and off-court problems since 2023 have become a recurring distraction. With a five-year, $197,230,450 contract and a limited trade market, Memphis must weigh keeping a mercurial talent against protecting the team’s culture and the future around Jaren Jackson Jr. Merlin sees a franchise at a crossroads: the longer the story centers on drama, the harder it is to win. Even a modest return or absorbing salary might be worthwhile if it restores focus and development. Expect cautious talks rather than a sudden splash — this will be a slow unwind, not a fireworks show.